Critical Dialogue Highlights Budget Gaps in Health and Education Sectors
Sanghar (Hasnain Ashiq Saand) A critical dialogue on health and education budget allocations in Pakistan, organized by the Sindh Green Foundation (SGF) under the Network for Budget Accountability (CNBA) and managed by the Centre for Peace and Development Initiatives (CPDI), Islamabad, has shed light on persistent funding gaps and regional disparities in these crucial sectors.
The event analyzed budget trends from 2021-22 to 2024-25, revealing that gradual budget increases have failed to meet the growing demands of the population. Federal health spending, though increased to PKR 56,356 million for 2024-25, remains a fraction of the total budget, reflecting systemic underfunding. Provincial disparities were evident, with Sindh doubling its health budget to PKR 321,712 million and allocating 64% to public health services, while Punjab’s PKR 371,806 million budget prioritized hospital services. Balochistan, with PKR 77,167 million, continues to struggle with infrastructure deficits, and KP’s significant budget increases have focused primarily on hospital development.
The dialogue highlighted a critical nationwide shortage of 589,122 hospital beds, emphasizing the urgent need for expanded healthcare facilities, particularly in underserved regions such as KP and Balochistan, where per capita health spending remains alarmingly low.
In the education sector, federal allocations rose from PKR 145,403 million to PKR 191,650 million during the same period, with 76% directed toward tertiary education, leaving primary and secondary levels underfunded. Sindh was praised for its balanced allocation of PKR 507,576 million across all education levels, whereas Punjab and KP budgets disproportionately favored tertiary education. Balochistan demonstrated progress with a 218% increase in its education budget, focusing on foundational learning in primary and secondary schools.
Key recommendations from the dialogue include increased funding for health and education, prioritization of underserved regions, expanded public-private partnerships, and enhanced WASH facilities in rural schools. The proposals align with Pakistan’s commitments to Sustainable Development Goals 3 and 4, aiming for equitable access to quality healthcare and education.
By addressing these critical gaps, Pakistan can pave the way for inclusive socio-economic development and improved quality of life for its citizens.
